2017 Singletrack 6: Stage 4 - Smallwood route

Data may be highly variable by device or mapping platform, as different software may use various data sources and calculation methods. Total elevation gain for the route is a middle estimate from multiple devices. Subject to permitting and adjustment.

For stage 4, it’s off to Nelson and the Smallwood trail network. After 3 km of climbing on pavement, the route enters a short section of singletrack on Sproule Creek Trail, linking riders into the Sproule Creek Forest Service Road. Another 8 km of fast-rolling gentle climbing before the start of the toughest climb of the day… and maybe the week. Sweet Sally is a strenuous 400 m climb ascending high up the forested slopes of the Smallwood area. A couple more km of moderate climbing will take you to the top of the ridge, where you enter the Vallelujah trail. This singletrack is technical and challenging, and offers stunning panoramic views in all directions, including the Valhallas to the North. After a few km of rolling uphill, the trail turns to the south for some sustained descending, connecting into Antler Trail and then Smallwood Trail. A short but strenuous climb takes you to another great viewpoint, this time overlooking the Kootenay River and Nelson far below. Then you are rewarded again with the Bigwood descent back to the Forest Service Road. This fast roll along the FSR will take you to a final singletrack descent into the finish line.